What Are the Best Rolling Stones Albums? Ranking All 25

When it comes to figuring out what are the best Rolling Stones albums, there's a lot of work to do - after all, there are 25 studio albums made by the British rockers. Few bands in the history of rock and roll have had as much impact or longevity as The Rolling Stones. With a career spanning more than five decades, their discography is a treasure trove of some of the best rock albums ever made. Today, we'll take a deep dive into the cream of the crop, presenting our take on the finest albums in the Stones' illustrious catalog.

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Year Released: 1986

While it's often maligned, Dirty Work includes a few standout tracks and reflects the tension within the band during this period.

Year Released: 1967

Often regarded as the Stones' response to the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, this album delves into full-blown psychedelia.

Year Released: 1980

A mixed bag of styles, Emotional Rescue showcased the Stones' willingness to venture into new genres, like disco.

Year Released: 1983

Undercover embraced new wave and dance trends of the 1980s. It wasn't universally loved but remains an interesting experiment in the band's catalog.

Year Released: 1994

Voodoo Lounge stripped back some of the overproduction of previous albums, creating a more classic Stones sound.

Year Released: 1965

December's Children (And Everybody's) is a snapshot of the Rolling Stones at an exciting juncture in their career. Released late in 1965, this album captures the band as they transition from their early R&B and blues-influenced sound towards more original and diverse songwriting.

Year Released: 1964

The second American album from the Stones, 12 x 5 contained a combination of covers and originals that hinted at the band's future trajectory.

Year Released: 1989

Steel Wheels brought a more polished sound, signifying the band's survival and relevance despite changes in the musical landscape.

Year Released: 1964

Their debut album, England's Newest Hit Makers, marked the Stones' entrance into the music scene, filled with energetic covers and a few original tracks.

Year Released: 1976

A transitional album marking the departure of guitarist Mick Taylor, Black and Blue showcases a wide range of musical styles.

Year Released: 2016

The Stones went back to their roots with Blue & Lonesome, an album of blues covers that feels like a tribute to their early influences.

Year Released: 1997

Experimentation and fresh influences in Bridges to Babylon produced a diverse and contemporary sound for the Stones.

Year Released: 1974

The title track, a classic rock anthem, makes It's Only Rock 'n Roll a worthy entry in the Rolling Stones' catalog.

Year Released: 1965

This album showcases the Stones in their early blues and R&B phase, but also contains early hints of their move toward original songwriting.

Year Released: 2005

A Bigger Bang was a return to form for the Stones, featuring a stripped-down sound reminiscent of their golden era.

Year Released: 1967

A blend of pop and psychedelia, Between the Buttons showcases the band's more whimsical side, particularly in the UK version with its lack of a big single.

Year Released: 1973

A solid record that followed their most acclaimed works, Goats Head Soup contains beautiful songs like "Angie" and "Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker)."

Year Released: 1965

Out of Our Heads marked a key transition point for the Stones, blending their R&B influences with a burgeoning move towards original compositions.

Year Released: 1981

Featuring the classic "Start Me Up," Tattoo You is a testament to the Stones' ability to rework old ideas into compelling new forms.

Year Released: 1966

The Stones' first album comprised entirely of Jagger/Richards compositions, Aftermath houses iconic songs like "Paint It, Black."

Year Released: 1978

Some Girls marked the Stones' foray into punk and disco influences, resulting in a classic record filled with massive hits like "Miss You."

Year Released: 1968

Beggars Banquet birthed the classic Rolling Stones sound. The album's rebellious energy and raw musicianship are unforgettable.

Year Released: 1972

The double album Exile on Main St. remains a high point in the Stones' prolific career. With its wide array of musical influences, it presents the quintessential Stones sound.

Year Released: 1969

Let It Bleed features a blend of hard rock, blues, and country. It's a testament to the band's adaptability and evolution.

Year Released: 1971

With its iconic album cover and hits like "Brown Sugar" and "Wild Horses," Sticky Fingers continues to be a fan-favorite, and rightfully sits at the number one spot on our list of the best Rolling Stones albums.